What does autobiography and biography mean Meaning and Definition
What does autobiography and biography mean
Pronunciation
(not applicable)
Part of Speech
Noun phrase
Definition
A biography is a written account of a person’s life, while an autobiography is a written account of a person’s life written by the person themselves.
Etymology
The word “biography” comes from the Greek words “bios” (life) and “graphein” (to write). The word “autobiography” is a combination of the words “auto” (self) and “biography”.
Usage Notes
Biographies and autobiographies are often found in literary and historical contexts. They are commonly used in educational settings to provide insight into the lives of notable figures.
Cultural References
Examples of notable biographies and autobiographies include “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To write one’s life story” – This idiomatic expression is often used to describe the act of writing an autobiography.
Related Words or Phrases
- Memoir
- Lifestory
- Personal narrative
Collocations
- Autobiography of [person’s name]
- Biography of [person’s name]
Frequency of Use
Biographies and autobiographies are commonly used in literary and educational contexts, and their frequency of use may fluctuate depending on cultural and historical trends.
Common Misspellings
- autobiograpy
- biographey
Additional Information
Biographies and autobiographies serve as important historical and cultural records, providing insight into the lives and experiences of individuals from various backgrounds. They can also be used as educational tools, helping readers understand different perspectives and develop empathy. When writing a biography or autobiography, it is important to consider the intended audience and to strike a balance between factuality and storytelling.